Downton Dinner

Sunday shopping and running errands in good weather takes much of the day. All efforts lead up to our dinner honoring the season finale of Downton Abbey. Unfortunately, no cooks, footmen, or maids in sight.

First course is Mrs. Patmore's London Particular, her version of split pea soup. We make it from scratch, of course, a somewhat simpler method than the recipe we found but the same ingredients. Emptied bowls all around! Second course is shepherds pie, a big hit and another great recipe. Third and last course is a trifle layered with fresh raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries. We pepper our table conversation with Downton quotes and use British accents.

After finishing dinner, we have just enough time to get settled in front of the television before the theme music begins. Love, birth, death, a full final episode. Too long until the next season!